861.24/1602: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Standley)
646. From Stettinius for Faymonville. Your telegram no. 971 of July 30. In the West Coast area cargo on hand has recently accumulated to such an extent as to cause serious congestion in the port, rail and storage facilities and the traffic authorities were concerned about congestion. In order to ease the transportation situation it became necessary to take steps to reduce this backlog, not only for the benefit of this country but also for the Soviets. In order to force [Page 773] the lifting of a reasonable amount of the backlog, action was taken to permit the shipment from the east only of goods of higher priority. While this policy is being carried out, the situation is being watched very carefully and sympathetic consideration is being given to genuine priorities for the Soviet. All goods being moved are regulated in accordance with the availability of the vessels. The congestion which previously existed is now being eliminated and the entire movement will shortly be in a much more fluid condition. At this time, results of this program are believed to be satisfactory with respect to availability of both higher priority items and total quantities of cargo. The maintenance of a stockpile any larger than the standard presently planned is precluded by the physical limitations of the West Coast area. The following is for your information: In the West Coast area practically all cargo on hand was originally sent there at the request of Soviet authorities and was originally planned for inclusion in loading schedules. The situation is being carefully watched by us and arrangements are being made to meet a realistic ship schedule for shipments of higher priority cargo. [Stettinius.]